Vishakha (20.00 Libra-3.20 Scorpio) is ruled by Agni and Indra and is a constellation of four stars forming the left half of the scales of Libra. Agni and Indra stand for heat, power and authority.

Vishakha is a Star of Purpose and evokes various meanings such as double-branched, forked, or poison vessel. It is also known as Radha or ‘the delightful’. Radha also happens to be the name of Lord Krishna’s consort.

Behavioral Characteristics

The English word ‘fixation’ can best describe the essence of Vishakha which is marked by concentration and single mindedness, although it can be affected by the nature of the goal it pursues. With the frequency of unwholesome goals, it is a concern to handle this impulse within this asterism, as the natives are easy preys to alcohol, drugs and sex. Vishakha natives have an urge to throng the local bar.

Vishakha natives have a jubilant aspect to their personality, and this makes them love ceremony and pomp. In case they opt for the pleasure of the senses, they often tend to turn into party freaks. After the triumph of Swati, Vishakha follows the exalted state of celebration of this triumph. With the feeling of emptiness succeeding every accomplishment, Vishakha natives are affected by it throughout their lives. Like fire, they are always concerned about what they lack, instead of using that they already have. In higher Vishakha natives, the presence of the void leads to a search for a profound truth.

The asterism of Vishakha is characterized by a fierce appearance with slants on their facial features. The sharp features and keen eyes are complemented by a behavior that can be jolly and courteous, or unpleasant and downright nasty. They frequently assume appearances to achieve their ends, by hiding negative feelings towards others. It is something that leaves them with no friends, as they are pried upon by envy, jealousy, etc. In fact, Vishakha born natives are obsessed with the negative feelings and thoughts and cannot give them up. Thus, the fire starts burning in them, without any real purpose.

It can be said that in Vishakha natives, the consumption can vary between the insignificant and spiritually destructive to aesthetically cultivating and evolving. Once the natives have decided upon something, they can go to any lengths to achieve their ends. This is something good as it makes them take up all kinds of challenges. They are faced with twin changes of succumbing to worseness or consciously follow the right path.

Vishakha makes simple matters complex and vice versa, by achieving objectives with resistance and confrontation. Surmounting obstacles by their sense of purpose, Vishakha asterism often complaining the end as to whether it was something that they had aimed for.

Padas or Quarters

The first pada falls on the Aries
Navamsa which is ruled by Mars. The pada brings in energy to the individual, single
mindedness and social ambitions. The highlight is on relationships, although passion
and instinct gain prominence over depth and commitment. Venus and Mars can benefit
the pada if they are well-placed.

The second pada falls on the
Taurus Navamsa which is ruled by Venus. They are characterized with durability
and endurance. Planets provide success to Venusian aspects. With strong
material ambitions, this Pushkara navamsa pada seeks to fulfill them if chances
are fair.

The third pada falls on the Gemini Navamsa which is
ruled by Mercury. The single-minded nature of the native expresses itself
through thoughts, communication, religion and philosophy. This is where there
is a conflict between two different areas. One force is open, lighthearted and
jovial, whereas the other is deceptive, anxious and selfish. Well-placed Saturn
and Mercury can provide good results.

The fourth pada falls on the
Cancer Navamsa which is ruled by the Moon. The most single minded of all the
padas of Vishakha, the turmoil in this quarter is on the emotional plane. It
makes the native highly volatile, dangerous and transformational. In the lowest
stage, it is extremely revengeful, despicable and vindictive. In the higher
stage, it provides high insight, executive ability, conviction and strong will
power. If Jupiter is well-placed, the native gains the wisdom for wading
through tough areas.

Vishakha natives should worship the 8 Vasus, and Hari Hara (half Shiva, half Vishnu). They should also practice the kundalini/raja yoga and chant the root mantra “Om Yam” and “Om Ram” 108 times during the lunar transition of this nakshatra to alleviate afflictions. Wearing red, blue and golden colors is also recommended. All important actions should correspond to the course of this constellation for best results.

Miscellaneous

In the words of Varahamihira, the lunar influence gives Vishakha jealousy, greed. Nicole Kidman is a typical Vishakha native, with her secretive and obsessive personality.